Deity, Mantra, and Wisdom contains four of the most cherished Tibetan Buddhist commentaries on the practices of visualization, mantra recitation, and meditative absorption. These three elements form the core of development stage meditation, one of the most important practices of Buddhist Tantra. The authors of these timeless classics--Jigme Lingpa, Patrul Rinpoche, and Getse Mahapandita--have all profoundly shaped Tibetan Buddhism with their vast scholarship and deep spiritual realization. In these eloquent and inspiring writings, they explain the fundamental philosophy of the development stage, showing not only its profound insights into the nature of reality, but also how to make this view a living experience through the practice of meditation.

Jigme Lingpa (1730-1798) was one of the great saints of
eighteenth century Tibet. His profound spiritual revelations and
erudite writings have proven to be some of the most enduring classics
of the Buddhist tradition. To this day, they continue to inspire others
to lead a life of meditation.

Patrul Rinpoche (1808-1887)
lived his life as a wandering yogi devoted to the practice of
meditation. An accomplished scholar and prolific writer, he has won the
hearts of many with his rare ability to present profound philosophical
thought in a manner directly applicable to personal practice.

Getse Mahapandita Tsewang Chokdrub
(1761-1829) revitalized the tradition of the Nyingma School through his
commitment to the study and preservation of the Ancient Tantras and the
revival of many Nyingma monasteries. Among his extensive literary
works, his commentaries on the development stage have become central
reading for numerous practitioners of Buddhist Tantra.

The Dharmachakra Translation Commitee draws its inspiration from the vision, commitment, and magnificent achievements of past Buddhist translators. Directed by Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche, the Committee is dedicated to making Buddhist classics available to modern readers in their native languages.

Contents: Deity, Mantra, and Wisdom

Foreword by Trulshik Rinpoche

9

Foreword by Chokyi Nyima Rinpoche

11

Introduction

13

Text One & Two - Jigme Lingpa & Patrul Chokyi WangpoLadder to Akanistha: Instructions on the Development Stage and
Deity Yoga and Clarifying the Difficult Points in the Development
Stage and Deity Yoga

21

Text Three - Patrul Chokyi WangpoThe Melody of Brahma Reveling in the Three Realms: Key Points for
Meditating on the Four Stakes That Bind the Life-Force

81

Text Four - Getse Mahapandita Tsewang ChokdrubHusks of Unity: A Clarification of the Development Stage Ritual